Why Do I Drink When I Don’t Want To?

"I promised her I’d never drink again. This time, I meant it."

Sound familiar? These are the words many of us have said countless times, only to find ourselves back in the same destructive cycle. We swear off alcohol, convinced that this time will be different, only to find ourselves drinking again—often sooner than we’d like to admit. But why? Why do we continue to drink when we know it's ruining our lives?

The Cycle of Alcoholism

Alcoholism isn’t just a bad habit; it’s a chronic condition that alters the brain's chemistry, making it incredibly difficult to stop once we start. The Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, specifically "The Doctor’s Opinion," sheds light on this paradox. We drink because it temporarily relieves our feelings of restlessness, irritability, and discontent. For many, alcohol is a quick fix for underlying issues like anxiety and depression. It works—at least at first. But for real alcoholics, stopping after just one drink is the real challenge.

The False Promise of Control

Many of us try to control our drinking. We set rules for ourselves: “Only on weekends,” “Just one drink,” “Only after 5 PM.” But as any alcoholic will tell you, those rules are often broken. Once the first drink is taken, all bets are off. The same alcohol that seems to offer relief quickly becomes a solvent to our morals, dissolving our best intentions.

Finding a Way Out

So, how do real alcoholics stop drinking for good? The first step is finding someone who’s been there—someone who understands the struggle and has found a way out. For many, this means finding a sponsor who can guide them through the 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. A sponsor is someone who’s not only stopped drinking but has also found a way to live a happy, sober life. They can show you the path they took to recovery and help you navigate your own journey.

A Permanent Solution

When I found my sponsor, he quickly convinced me that he knew what I was going through. He’d made those same promises to himself and others, only to break them time and time again. But he also convinced me that recovery was possible. Through the program, I found permanent relief from the restless, irritable, and discontented feelings that had driven me to drink. I learned new ways to cope with life’s challenges without turning to alcohol.

Reach Out for Help

If you see yourself in this story, know that help is available. At Naples Retreat, we understand the struggle because we've been there ourselves. We offer a community where you can share your story and begin your journey to a sober, fulfilling life. Don't wait for another rock bottom—reach out to us today.